Manoj Muntashir Challenges Anurag Kashyap Over Controversial Brahmin Comments Amid ‘Phule’ Certification Dispute
Renowned lyricist-screenwriter Manoj Muntashir has publicly confronted filmmaker Anurag Kashyap following remarks that sparked outrage within the Brahmin community. Through an Instagram video, Muntashir expressed his indignation, describing Kashyap’s statements as both “disrespectful” and “irresponsible.”
The conflict emerged after Kashyap’s upcoming film ‘Phule’ reportedly encountered requests for modifications from the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). The film, which chronicles the lives of social reformers Jyotirao and Savitribai Phule, has faced opposition from Brahmin groups, prompting Kashyap to voice his frustrations on social media.
In his pointed response, Muntashir advised in Hindi: “If your income is less, restrain your expenses, and if your information is less, restrain your words.” He emphatically added, “You do not have it in you to pollute even an inch of the Brahmin legacy.”
Escalating the confrontation, Muntashir enumerated 21 distinguished Brahmin personalities—spanning scholars, freedom fighters, and leaders—challenging Kashyap to select any one figure and defend his position. “I, a Brahmin, give you an open challenge,” declared Muntashir. “Pick one name from the 21 names, and I’ll send you their photograph. If you cannot act on your words, learn to stay within your limits.”
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In response to the growing controversy, Kashyap issued an apology for his specific comment while defending the importance of telling the Phules’ story. He clarified that his remarks had been misinterpreted and revealed that female family members had subsequently received rape and death threats. “I will take responsibility for what I say, but leave my family out of it,” he urged those involved in the backlash.
‘Phule,’ directed by Ananth Mahadevan and featuring Pratik Gandhi and Patralekhaa in lead roles, documents the Phules’ struggle against caste discrimination and gender inequality. Originally scheduled for release on April 11, the film now faces an indefinite delay with no new premiere date announced.